Empowering Women Since 1881

Everything You Need to Know for Election Day

October 27, 2016

Election Day is around the corner! You’ve been preparing for months to ensure that women’s voices are heard on Tuesday, November 8. Now it’s time to make sure every vote is counted.

AAUW is proud to partner with Election Protection to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. Studies show that voters who make a plan, including how and where to vote, are more likely to follow through on Election Day. Before you head to the polls, learn how to protect your vote and what to do if something goes wrong.

Be Prepared

Register to vote. Some states allow voters to register through Election Day, while other states’ deadlines have already passed. Find out your state’s rules. If you are registered to vote already, make sure that your registration status includes your current address.

Ask for help from the people who work at the polls (that’s why they’re there!). Check posted information signs if you have questions or need assistance. Have questions or need more information? Visit 866ourvote.org or call 1.866.OUR.VOTE.

If Something Goes Wrong

Voter suppression and voter intimidation are illegal. If your voting rights are challenged at the polls, document and report the problem. Call 866.OUR.VOTE (866.687.8683) as soon as you experience an issue. This hotline has been set up by the nonpartisan Election Protection coalition to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. They have hundreds of lawyers standing by to immediately respond to problems at the polls. Spanish language speakers can call 888.VE.Y.VOTA and Asian language speakers can receive assistance through 888.API.VOTE in Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Bengali, Urdu, Hindi, and Tagalog.

Be sure to write down exactly what happened, including the time of day, descriptions of the people involved, and any other details you can remember. If specific individuals are challenging your right to vote, intimidating voters, or interfering with the process, try to get their names.

For more voter resources, visit the AAUW Action Fund website and be sure to share this information with friends and family. Together, we can ensure that women’s voices are heard on Election Day!